Jewel of the South

Located on the outskirts of the French Quarter, sits an intimate 1835 brick creole cottage turned bar and restaurant.

Category
Hospitality, Interiors

Location
New Orleans, LA

Size
2,242 SF

Year
2020

Jewel of the South’s name, originating from the 1850s, was a New Orleans bar in another downtown location where Joseph Santini first made the brandy crusta, now the featured drink of the new location. The main entry to the restaurant pulls patrons through the slate tiled ally to the rear revealing a treasured feature of the French Quarter, a brick walled courtyard lined with citrus trees. A ramp and raised courtyard creates accessibility to the building while forming intimate spaces within the open courtyard.

A historic, dark wood stained bar from the northwest that was disassembled, transported, and pieced together by a local miracle worker is prominently featured. This piece served as the design inspiration for the rest of the space. Additional historic elements, like the light fixtures hanging from the wood framed structure above, mix with new features like the locally crafted wood and brass bar rail and serve as a separation of space. By hugging the service spaces on the exterior walls, patrons weave through the space to the intimate lounge and bar. The stair was reworked to accommodate modern day code and create a seamless flow to the upper dining area that features a small bar, exposed wood roof rafters and original wood floors.

Recognition for Jewel of the South

Awards